Technological Innovations in Broadband and Layered Policy Model for ICT Sector

Digitization and competition has changed the ICT market structure completely. The ability of IP to surf on all networks has made it possible to offer same services on various types of broadband access networks including DSL, Cable Modem, Fiber infrastructure, Third Generation (3G) Cellular, and WiMAX. These networks are still passing through rapid technological innovations. In the presence of many alternate platforms for the same service and capability of each platform to offer almost all kinds of services due to IP revolution, it has become inappropriate to regulate these platforms differently. The main challenge for policy makers and regulators is how to tackle this new IP-based converged broadband world. This paper analysis the "Layering Policy Approach" to find its suitability for ICT sector and also discusses a modified "New Layering Theory" for finding significant market power (SMP) for the IP world. The Layer Policy Model may be proved a reasonable choice for ICT industry if used carefully and by first analyzing each aspect of it. At least, this model can be helpful in pointing out problems and issues in a natural way for technologically advanced horizontal ICT sector.